What drives charlie to go prowling late at night in flowers for algernon?

In "Flowers for Algernon," Charlie Gordon is driven to go prowling late at night by his desire for social acceptance and connection. After undergoing an experimental surgery that temporarily increases his intelligence, he becomes more aware of his surroundings and the complexities of human relationships. This newfound awareness leads him to seek out experiences and interactions that he previously struggled to understand. Ultimately, his late-night prowling reflects his longing for intimacy and belonging in a world that often feels alien to him.